AFCON: Bafana Bafana battles Nigeria later

By Temo Mpodi

Who is staying, who is leaving? After 23 years, Bafana Bafana finally made it to the AFCON semi-finals. Unexpected and very unpredictable by the nation. It’s a clash between Bafana Bafana and Nigeria later at 7pm.

It’s going to be a very intense game, every team wants to make their nation proud. But the South African goalkeeper made history and set the upcoming match’s tone even higher, and one to wait for, as he sought himself as one of the best goalkeepers Africa might have ever had through his goalkeeping skills.

Ronwen Williams, South Africa’s goalkeeper aged 32, showcased his heroics in the AFCON quarter-final showdown against Cape Verde on Saturday, February 3. Following a gritty 0-0 deadlock during regulation play, Williams sealed victory for his team with exceptional saves in the penalty shootout, becoming the first goalkeeper in AFCON history to ever save four penalty shootouts in a match. Imagine. Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos said, we were not lucky, because we had a very good keeper tonight. If you can save four penalties that is not luck anymore.

Both teams boast rich footballing traditions and passionate fan bases, making any encounter between them a spectacle to behold.

For South Africa, the match represents an opportunity to redeem themselves against one of the continent’s footballing powerhouses. Bafana Bafana, as the South African national team is affectionately known, will be aiming to demonstrate their talent and competitiveness against Nigeria, with hopes of securing a positive result.

Meanwhile, Nigeria, known as the Super Eagles, will be eager to maintain their dominance over South Africa and continue their strong performance in international football. With a history of success in African football and a squad filled with talented players, the Super Eagles will be determined to claim victory. Nigeria won their last match against Angola (1-0).

As fans eagerly awaits this match, excitement and tension is felt through the socials and in the air. Whether watching from the stands or following the action from a restaurant, or home, supporters of both teams will be hoping for an exciting contest filled with skill and passion.

7pm, Wednesday 7 February 2024 is the set time and date. Catch you later!